Subject category:
Production and Operations Management
Published by:
INSEAD
Version: 06/2023
Revision date: 9-Jun-2023
Length: 16 pages
Data source: Published sources
Abstract
The case was written to illustrate the importance of business process design as a basis for competition in the textile industry. The case illustrates the impressive performance of Zara, the new fashion player from Spain, which has innovated in process design so as to deliver new collections in its stores with a lead-time of 5 to 7 days. The more traditional approach in textile retailing is illustrated here by Marks & Spencer (M&S), the well-known UK retailer. Notwithstanding M&S's current problems, the case does not fall into an overly simple comparison between a young, innovative competitor and an aging glory.
Teaching and learning
This item is suitable for postgraduate and executive education courses.Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 1998-2001.Geographical setting
Region:
World/global
Featured companies
Marks & Spencer
Industry:
Apparel and fashion
Zara
Industry:
Apparel and fashion
Featured protagonist
- Luc Vandevelde (male), Chairman & Chief Executive
About
Abstract
The case was written to illustrate the importance of business process design as a basis for competition in the textile industry. The case illustrates the impressive performance of Zara, the new fashion player from Spain, which has innovated in process design so as to deliver new collections in its stores with a lead-time of 5 to 7 days. The more traditional approach in textile retailing is illustrated here by Marks & Spencer (M&S), the well-known UK retailer. Notwithstanding M&S's current problems, the case does not fall into an overly simple comparison between a young, innovative competitor and an aging glory.
Teaching and learning
This item is suitable for postgraduate and executive education courses.Settings
Time period
The events covered by this case took place in 1998-2001.Geographical setting
Region:
World/global
Featured companies
Marks & Spencer
Industry:
Apparel and fashion
Zara
Industry:
Apparel and fashion
Featured protagonist
- Luc Vandevelde (male), Chairman & Chief Executive